Nature Notes

Learning through stewardship and storytelling, our summer interns explored nurse logs, plant connections, and the human stories that bring The Ridges to life.

Is The Ridges Haunted? It’s a question we hear often—especially in the fall. While The Ridges Sanctuary isn’t officially known for ghost stories, decades of strange experiences and whispered tales suggest there may be more to the story. From unexplained footsteps in the Kaye Cabin to ghostly laughter in the historic Upper Range Light, some believe the past is still very much present here. Curious? Read on and decide for yourself.

The Swale Tale: How an unusual Door County landscape is helping researchers learn how Great Lake water levels affect groundwater and forests in coastal areas. Because of the incredible diversity […]

Nature Notes: Helping Wisconsin Bats By Anna Foster, Program Director Imagine walking down a boardwalk by the light of the moon, feeling the cool breeze from Lake Michigan through the […]

As our planet warms and ecosystems shift, we must not go gentle into this climate crisis. Species like the endangered Hine’s emerald dragonfly face mounting threats, while invasive species spread into disrupted habitats. The Boreal and Temperate Mesic Forest Survivability Project shows how science and action can push back. Reforestation, research, and resilience matter. Climate change demands urgency—not resignation. Even uncertain efforts are better than none. Doing nothing is surrender. But together, we can still make a difference.

As summer gives way to fall, the forest becomes a classroom once again. In this season of transition, our nature-based programs like Dragonfly Nature Preschool and Forest School embrace the rhythms of the natural world—where curiosity leads and mud can teach more than a lesson plan. Join us as we fall into the rhythm of learning at The Ridges.

Collaborative research at The Ridges deepens our understanding of biodiversity, ecosystems, and climate—advancing science while protecting this unique natural sanctuary for future generations.

Summer brings back memories of barefoot adventures, backyard games, and family time in nature. Discover how outdoor experiences can strengthen family bonds and create lasting memories.

Discover how The Ridges Sanctuary is using science-based restoration to protect native orchids and the threatened dwarf lake iris from environmental change.

Nature Notes: Powered by Passion—Community efforts to preserve the Boreal Forest  By Katie Krouse, Executive Director When we dreamed up the Boreal Climate Survivability Project in collaboration with the Climate […]

Discover the beauty of art in nature, where patterns meet unpredictability, and wildness coexists with calm. Explore the Fibonacci sequence, intricate textures of moss and lichen, and the quiet inspiration found in forests. Celebrate Earth Week with a student art exhibit at The Ridges Sanctuary, showcasing creative interpretations of nature’s wonders.

Nature Notes: Owl Prowling By Dan Scheiman, PhD, Staff Ornithologist/Visitor Engagement Specialist We’ve heard from some of our readers regarding concerns about the use of playback for calling owls. First, […]

Reconnecting with the Natural World Throughout the Winter Season By Anna Foster Program Director Going outside in the winter can sometimes seem like more trouble than it’s worth. When the […]

Looking Back to Move Forward By Katie Krouse, Executive Director What a year it’s been.  As I sit here at the end of December, reflecting on the incredible year we’re […]